College Experiences That Helped a CEO at IRR Investments Succeed
Jessica, CEO at IRR Investments, emphasizes the importance of proactive engagement during undergraduate studies, stating "I was always working," juggling multiple jobs, internships, and entrepreneurial ventures like house flipping and stock trading. This multifaceted approach, combined with a focus on networking and mentorship—both giving and receiving—helped build a strong foundation for their successful career.
Networking, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Financial Literacy, Career Exploration, Open-mindedness
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jessica Thumati
CEO
IRR Investments
University of Arizona
N/A
Business & Related, Finance, Accounting
Consulting & Related Professional Services
Finance
None Applicable
Video Highlights
1. Work throughout college, even with scholarships, taking on multiple jobs and internships.
2. Explore diverse interests; Jessica's experiences included internships, house flipping, and stock trading, highlighting the value of experimentation.
3. Network extensively and build relationships; her friendships from a freshman program underscore the long-term benefits of networking and collaboration.
Transcript
Here's the cleaned transcript:
**Q12: College ideas for success**
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
In undergrad, I was always working. Although I was in school on a full academic scholarship, I always had probably two jobs. I did internships with professors, and for fun, I also flipped houses with my stepdad and traded stocks. I was always doing something.
I think I was just trying everything and seeing what stuck and what worked. I was very money-minded at that age and wasn't sure what I wanted to do, but I was trying to do everything and see what worked. I knew I wanted to be in business and at some point work for myself.
Staying open-minded and just learning was really important. I tried to absorb as much as I possibly could. Meeting people was also crucial. I did a program right before my freshman year for incoming students and met a great group of people I'm still friends with over 20 years later.
It's amazing how we're still friends to this day. Meeting as many like-minded people as you can is important. I think surrounding yourself with people who are doing something you're curious about, and you want to learn, is key.
Try to see how you can learn and how you can help someone else who wants to learn. If that means tutoring someone who's struggling with a concept, why not do it? How can I add value to someone else's life and career?
Then, see where you can surround yourself with people who can help you elevate as well. I think those things are really important.
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